Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT) Practice Exam

The correct choice indicates that Mr. Amos, the 78-year-old male who has needed assistance to the bathroom four times in the last two hours, is probably not showing signs of decreased cardiac output. This conclusion is drawn based on the understanding that decreased cardiac output typically leads to symptoms of insufficient blood flow to organs and tissues, resulting in physical manifestations such as confusion, cool and pale skin, or chest discomfort.

In Mr. Amos's case, his frequent need for assistance to the bathroom may suggest multiple factors, but it does not inherently indicate poor perfusion or decreased cardiac output. Patients with adequate cardiac output often maintain normal cognitive function, skin temperature, and circulation. Thus, his situation may be influenced by other factors such as mobility issues, but does not directly correlate with a reduction in cardiac performance.

On the other hand, the other patients exhibit signs typically associated with decreased cardiac output. For instance, pale and cool skin indicates poor peripheral perfusion, while difficulty answering questions can suggest inadequate cerebral blood flow, and chest tightness may represent ischemia or reduced cardiac output.